The federal government has always recognized counterfeiting as a threat to the nation’s financial system. However, with advanced technology, strategic international initiatives, and training programs, federal law enforcement agencies have recently stepped up their efforts to target counterfeiters and their distribution networks.
If you are the target of an investigation or have been charged with a counterfeiting crime, you need an experienced federal defense attorney who will fight aggressively to protect your rights and your freedom. A counterfeiting conviction can result in fines up to $250,000 and up to 20 years in prison, so don’t delay in getting started building the best defense possible. Call our office today.
Counterfeiting Offenses
Under federal law, counterfeiting includes the creation, distribution, and use of counterfeit currency or securities, specific types of documents, and various types of goods. Federal statutes specifically prohibit the creation, selling, or use of counterfeit U.S. or foreign currency or securities, as well as the possession or sale of imprints or images to be used to create counterfeit currency or securities.
Federal statutes also prohibit the creation, forging, or distribution of different types of counterfeit documents, including federal court documents, documents dealing with federal government contracts, documents issued by specific lending institutions, and documents related to imports and custom duties. In addition, public records counterfeited to defraud the U.S. government, counterfeited bonds, counterfeited seals of federal agencies, and counterfeited USPS stamps are explicitly prohibited by federal law.
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is also a federal crime, often involving a trademark infringement offense. The counterfeited goods can include passports and other IDs, credit cards, works of art, jewelry, watches, clothing, and electronics.
Defending Against Counterfeiting Charges
To convict someone of any type of counterfeiting, federal prosecutors have to prove you intended to defraud others. That is, they have to prove that you were intentionally using counterfeit currency as real money, knew you were submitting a counterfeit document, or were aware that you were trying to pass off counterfeit goods as authentic. It’s not enough to show that you had counterfeiting materials or that you engaged in a transaction involving counterfeit currency, documents or goods.
Challenging the prosecution’s claim of intent could then be a feasible defense strategy, as could other numerous tactics. The point is that in order to fight aggressively against counterfeiting charges, you need an experienced federal defense attorney who understands the nuances of federal counterfeiting statutes and cases and knows how the federal court system works.
Fight Counterfeiting Charges with Help from an Experienced Federal Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with trying to use counterfeit money, documents, or goods, you need strong legal representation from an experienced federal defense attorney. Without an aggressive, strategic defense, you could face huge fines and years in prison.
At Haas Law, we are experienced in helping clients with all kinds of counterfeiting charges. We have the knowledge, skill and resources to defend you successfully and fight for the best possible outcome for your future.
Call us at 407-755-7675 or use the form on our website to contact us and get started on your defense.